Removable Orthodontic Appliance and Method of Forming the Same - According to one embodiment, a method of forming an orthodontic appliance includes forming an arch configured to custom fit a plurality of teeth. The method may further include coupling a plurality of wire receptors to at least two of: a first surface of the arch corresponding to the lingual surfaces of the plurality of teeth; a second surface of the arch corresponding to the labial surfaces of the plurality of teeth; and a third surface of the arch corresponding to the occusal surfaces of the plurality of teeth. Selected portions of the composite arch may be separated. A first pair of the plurality of wire receptors may be coupled together using a first orthodontic wire. A second pair of the plurality of wire receptors may be coupled together using a second orthodontic wire.

2010-11-04

20100279246

Orthodontic Activator - An odontological device and device series to guide an individual's occlusion and a method to be used in selecting an occlusion guidance appliance device to be used in orthodontic treatment. This kind of device contains a U-shaped arch with a lower surface on the side of the lower jaw and a higher surface on the side of the upper jaw, an in both of which there are concaves in which to place the individual's teeth, and where the bottoms of the concaves form of the isthmus separating the concaves from one another. According to the invention, the isthmus includes blanks meant for individual teeth and uniform, continuous hollows meant for at least two teeth to guide the teeth in the required direction, and the lower jaw side surface has a lower wing constricting the tongue at least sideways, and it helps the device to remain in place in the individual's mouth. The blanks position the device at the teeth and the dental arch, the compartments reduce the problems caused by twisted teeth when inserting the device in the mouth for example and the lower wings help to keep the device in place.

2010-11-04

20100279247

Self-ligating orthodontic bracket - A self-ligating orthodontic bracket including a base mountable on a tooth and having upstanding hinge members with aligned slots defining an archwire slot and for pivotally and slidably receiving a pair of openable and closable jaws and a spring member engaging said jaws and actuable upon opening and closing said jaws to selectively lock the jaws into open position for insertion or removal of an archwire and closed position for locking the archwire to the bracket.

2010-11-04

20100279248

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING THE LIKELIHOOD OF CARIES DEVELOPMENT - A hand-held intra-oral dental device and method are described for the detection of pre-caries lesions and the prediction of evolution and prognosis of same. The present invention has as its foundation a low-cost tool for predicting the likelihood of the development of Early Childhood Caries (ECC), in contrast to other techniques and associated devices, where their focus is to identify individual pre-caries lesions. This method focuses on the detection of caries precursors or of their patterns and the relationship of those precursors and patterns to the likelihood of subsequent dental disease. The implications for the establishment for early preventive treatment are profound, namely the earliest implementation of preventative therapy for our approach relative to that of the other approaches.

2010-11-04

20100279249

DENTAL ORAL MIRROR - A dental oral mirror has a handgrip with a holding end and a gripping end, and a mirror frame connecting to the holding end. The handgrip and the mirror frame form a selected angle between them. The mirror frame has two opposite holding sides to hold respectively a mirror so that more light reflective angles are provided for dentists during treatment of patients and usability improves. The invention also can reduce wrist turning of the dentists during treatment and protect the wrist and neck of the dentists, and reduce professional injury that might otherwise occur.

2010-11-04

20100279250

Programmable dental device - A multiuse programmable dental device that allows the user to selectively program various fluid delivery regimens and methods of using and programming the irrigator device. The irrigator may also be operated manually, as desired by the operator. Other features, such as selective delivery of various fluids, monitoring fluids levels of the system, and the capability to store previously used regimens within the systems memory, are found in the present invention.

2010-11-04

20100279251

Flexible needle housing - A flexible or adjustable housing for a surgical needle and a needle assembly that includes the housing. Adjustment of the length of the housing allows the needle to accommodate tooth canals of varying lengths, while providing the requisite support for the needle, without needing to adjust the actual length of the needle.

2010-11-04

20100279252

Apparatus and Method for Removing Enamel from a Person's Tooth - According to one embodiment, an apparatus for removing enamel from a person's tooth includes a blade portion and a handle portion. The blade portion includes an abrasive surface adapted to remove enamel from the tooth in response to reciprocating movement of the abrasive surface against the enamel. The handle portion is coupled to the blade portion and includes first and second regions, the first region is proximal and the second region is distal to the blade portion. The first region includes a substantially solid cross-section with a substantially circular perimeter. The second region includes a substantially solid cross-section with at least a substantially semi-circular perimeter, the solid cross-section defining a notched region. The apparatus is adapted to be inserted via a pressure fit into a corresponding opening in a driver mechanism adapted to drive reciprocating movement of the blade portion and the abrasive surface.

2010-11-04

20100279253

SELF-CONTAINED DENTAL TOOL WITH EXTENDABLE HANDLE - A compact dental appliance includes a protective cap which is reversibly attachable to either end of the appliance, so that removal of the cap exposes a dental hygiene tool, and re-attachment of the cap to the appliance in the opposite orientation re-configures the cap as a handle or handle extension. In preferred embodiments, a plurality of reversibly attachable dental hygiene tools is provided.

2010-11-04

20100279254

Dental prosthesis fabrication - A method is disclosed for forming an accurate stone cast from a dental hydrocolloid impression, used for the purpose of prosthetic fabrication, such as dental prostheses. The dental stone catalyst, calcium sulfate dihydrate, is engaged onto the internal surface of set hydrocolloid impression. This catalyst, placed in the area between impression material and wet, mixed stone, will act to hasten the initial setting of dental stone that is in closest proximity to the impression. The result is a stratified set of the stone. Setting of the wet, mixed dental stone occurs first at the impression/stone interface. The setting radiates outwardly, away from the impression/stone interface. The mixed stone better resists distortion upon setting and the resultant set stone cast is more accurate.

2010-11-04

20100279255

Vehicle simulator system - A vehicle simulation system may include: a platform positioned within a three-dimensional workspace, at least six upper support members positioned outside the three-dimensional workspace, at least six upper adjustable cables routed from corresponding upper support members and secured to the platform to apply at least a portion of upward tension to the platform, and a vehicle secured to the platform. The vehicle may provide one or more occupants with a simulated experience within a three-dimensional virtual environment as the upper adjustable cables are adjustably extended and retracted in a coordinated fashion to maneuver the platform.

2010-11-04

20100279256

ARRAY OF COSMETIC PRODUCT CLUSTERS - An array of cosmetic product clusters designed to help consumers obtain a desired end-look, the array comprising a first cluster comprising cosmetic products corresponding to a first desired end-look and a second cluster comprising cosmetic products corresponding to a second desired end-look. The clusters are adjacent to one another and each cluster comprises at least two cosmetic product segments selected from eye products, lip products, face products, nail products, and cosmetic implements. Within each segment there is at least one individual cosmetic product that is not present in a corresponding segment of any other cluster.

Kinesthetic Educational Methods and Games - Methods and games for teaching cognitive and social skills to children with alternative learning styles, particularly children with kinesthetic and/or visual learning styles. Mission-oriented exercises are designed to engage hyperactive children to solve problems. Alternative methods of displaying and sequencing data communicate with visual learners, encouraging flexibility of cognitive thought processes.

2010-11-04

20100279259

MULTIPLICATION TEACHING AID - A teaching aid for facilitating in the learning and comprehension of multiplication tables is provided. The teaching aid includes a plurality of generally flat tabs including a front surface and a rear surface. At least one of the front surface or the rear surface is capable of having indicia displayed thereon. The tabs include a first end and a second end, the second end including an aperture. A retaining member extends through the aperture of the second end of each of the plurality of tabs for resiliently holding the plurality of tabs together while permitting each of the tabs to rotate with respect to the other. A plurality of indicia are displayed on at least one of the front or rear surface. Wherein, the indicia correspond to a graphical representation of the product of a first number and a second number to be multiplied.

2010-11-04

20100279260

Method of Constructing Questions For Lie Detection Examinations - A method for improving the construction of a polygraph examiner's question list during a computerized polygraph exam includes the following steps: a) before the polygraph exam, building a first library of different sequences of question types, and building a second library of different question types; b) organizing the first and second libraries; c) combining the different question types into sets of categories; d) selecting a sequence of question types from the first library, and selecting a first category of question types; e) reviewing a range of questions within the first category; f) selecting and adding some of the questions within the first category to the selected sequence of question types; g) during the polygraph exam, selecting a second category; h) repeating steps (e) and (f) for the second category; and i) repeating steps (g) and (h) until the polygraph examiner's question list is complete.

2010-11-04

20100279261

Coaching aid - A coaching aid system includes a white board fashioned to resemble a sport playing surface for a team sport and at least a first set of player figurines. The first set of play figurines may include at least as many player figurines as the number of team players would occupy said sport playing surface during play of the sport. Each player figurine is configured to resemble a unique playing position and stance unique to that position within the number of team players. Advantageously the first set of player figurines includes a greater number of player figurines than the number of team members so as to provide at least one substitute player figurine for at least one of the unique playing positions. Each unique playing position figurine is in a nuanced player stance corresponding to a player stance in that player position chosen from a group of different scenarios.

2010-11-04

20100279262

AUSCULTATION TRAINING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - An auscultation training device that utilizes a medical training mannequin, a controller, and a database of auscultation training sound data to simulate and communicate the sounds of the human body to users; the invention is able to initiate the playback of prerecorded sounds via a variety of trigger mechanisms, and transmit live sounds, or combinations of sounds, to remote examiners.

2010-11-04

20100279263

Polysomnography Training Apparatus - A patient simulator for training a person on performing a polysomnography includes a mannequin representing a torso and head of a human body made of a rigid material with a skin layer on the surface of the mannequin. The skin layer being made of an artificial skin material simulating the electrical conductivity and electrical impedance of human skin. The patient simulator further includes a signal generator for generating electrical signals simulating biophysiological activity. A plurality of emitter electrodes positioned underneath the skin layer and connected to the signal generator to receive the electrical signals, and transmit the electrical signals through the skin layer. A controller is connected to the signal generator to control the signal generator to generate the electrical signals.

2010-11-04

20100279264

HOLISTIC ACADEMIC SYSTEM - The holistic academic system that improves communication and interactions between users, such as administrators, teachers, parents, and/or students, by providing different perspectives—an administrator perspective, a teacher perspective, a parent perspective, and a student perspective—of a single representation of shared data without requiring users to learn how to use multiple tools or requiring that the data be converted or synchronized between multiple tools. The holistic academic system mobilizes information electronically across administrators, teachers, parents, and/or students, seamlessly producing a concise collection of shared information. Additionally, by providing different perspectives of the same information (e.g., a schedule, a grade sheet, etc.), the holistic academic system reduces user input errors and eliminates data conversion and synchronization errors.

2010-11-04

20100279265

Computer Method and System for Increasing the Quality of Student Learning - Today, students are underperforming on the standardized testing. In an effort to better performance on these tests, software systems allow a student to practice different topics. These software systems, however, do not perform a longitudinal analysis of a student allowing the creation of an adaptable learning environment for the system. In contrast, the present invention provides a system that enables a student to answer one or more questions of a problem set. Next, the system stores information for each answer of the one or more questions over a period of time, analyzes the information for each student answer in a longitudinal manner, and identifies one or more deficiencies in learning of the student based on the longitudinal analysis. In this way, the system uses longitudinal analysis to identify student deficiencies, which allows a teacher or parent, using the analysis, to increase the quality of learning for the student.

2010-11-04

20100279266

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HYBRID COURSE INSTRUCTION - Systems and methods related to providing an electronic presentation to both in-class attendees and remotely located out-of-class attendees, in which video and audio associated with the presentation is provided to the remote attendees, and out-of-class programmable systems are programmed to execute an educational exercise associated with the presentation and be remotely operated by the remote attendees.

2010-11-04

20100279267

SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR IDENTIFICATION AND EVALUATION OF INNOVATIVE ABILITIES - A system, method and apparatus measures and classifies innovation skills and technical capability of individuals based on predefined referencable attributes. The classification is used to help individuals improve their innovative abilities and to build innovation teams. The classifications are stored such that they may be further analyzed and used.

CHARACTERIZATION OF N-GLYCAN MIXTURES BY NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE - The present disclosure provides nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods for characterizing mixtures of N-linked glycans. Without limitation, methods of the present disclosure may be useful in characterizing monosaccharide composition, branching, fucosylation, sulfation, phosphorylation, sialylation linkages, presence of impurities and/or efficiency of a labeling procedure (e.g., labeling with a fluorophore such as 2-AB). In certain embodiments, the methods can be used quantitatively. In certain embodiments, the methods can be combined with enzymatic digestion to further characterize glycan mixtures.

Sample collection apparatus - A sample collection apparatus which measures biological samples and can be used to provide the early detection of respiratory diseases, for example tuberculosis induced by the pathogen

2010-11-04

20100279272

MULTIPLEXED ANALYSIS METHODS USING SERS-ACTIVE NANOPARTICLES - Methods are described for performing a multiplexed analysis of a level of target analyte in a sample, employing an identifier and a labeling reagent. Either or both of the identifier and the labeling reagent comprises a SERS-active nanoparticle associated with a SERS-active reporter with a uniquely identifiable spectroscopic signature. Interrogation of the identifier and the labeling reagent is conducted by serial coincident detection. Such methods can provide enhanced multiplexed analysis of analytes in a sample, especially with regards to improving the type of identifying reagents that are employed.

2010-11-04

20100279273

NUCLEIC ACID SEQUENCES FOR THE AMPLIFICATION AND DETECTION OF RESPIRATORY VIRUSES - The present invention relates to methods of detection, as well as assays, reagents and kits for the specific detection of 15 clinically important respiratory viruses including influenza A and B viruses, human respiratory syncytial viruses, human metapneumoviruses, human enteroviruses, all serotypes of rhinoviruses, 7 serotypes of adenoviruses, parainfluenza viruses types 1, 2, 3, and 4, as well as coronaviruses NL, 229E, OC43, and SARS-CoV. The present invention allows for the detection of each of these respiratory viruses in a single assay.

2010-11-04

20100279274

Method of Pooling and/or Concentrating Biological Specimens for Analysis - The present invention provides methods for concentrating and pooling liquid suspensions of biological specimens containing analytes of interest in a dry state. The dried biological specimens containing analytes of interest are reconstituted and released from the matrix for subsequent analysis in concentrated form.

2010-11-04

20100279275

HUMAN GASTROINTESTINAL STEM CELL-DERIVED PRIMARY INTESTINAL EPITHELIAL CELL SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - The present invention relates to an intestinal primary epithelial cell system for detecting gastrointestinal segment-specific activation or suppression of a Toll-like receptor (TLR) by a target agent. The cell system includes an isolated human intestinal primary epithelial cell (HIPEC) line that expresses at least one TLR, where the HIPEC line is derived from a differentiable adult human gastrointestinal stem cell (ahGISC) line. Also disclosed are various methods of using the cell system, a kit that includes the cell system, and an isolated cell culture including an isolated HIPEC line derived from a differentiable ahGISC line.

METHODS OF EVALUATING A TEST AGENT IN A DISEASED CELL MODEL - The present invention relates to methods of constructing an integrated artificial immune system that comprises appropriate in vitro cellular and tissue constructs or their equivalents to mimic the tissues of the immune system in mammals. The artificial immune system can be used to test the efficacy of vaccine candidates and other materials in vitro and thus, is useful to accelerate vaccine development and testing drug and chemical interactions with the immune system, coupled with disease models to provide a more complete representation of an immune response.

Compositions and methods for analysis of target analytes - Compositions and methods are provided for analyzing a sample for the presence or absence of one or more target analytes. Microparticles bound to an analyte of interest are incubated in a solution containing a primary antibody directed towards the analyte. In direct assays of this invention, the microparticle-bound analyte competes with a labeled primary antibody do displace analyte from the primary antibody. Primary antibodies can be labeled with florescence or other labels detectable using a flow cytometer. The microparticle-bound analyte-primary antibody complex can be detected and quantified using a flow cytometer. In other, indirect assays, an unlabeled primary antibody can be used, and a labeled secondary antibody can react with a microparticle-bound analyte-primary antibody complex to form a labeled microparticle-bound analyte-primary antibody complex. The labeled microparticle-boudn alalyte-primary antibody complex can be detected using a flow cytometer. Using direct or indirect assays of this invention, peptides, proteins, nucleic acids or other analytes of interest can be detected and quantified.

METHOD OF IDENTIFYING LUNG CANCERS ASSOCIATED WITH ASBESTOS-EXPOSURE - The present invention is related to a method for assessing the presence of, or disposition to, an asbestos-related disorder in a subject. Particularly, the invention provides a method of identifying lung cancers associated with asbestos-exposure. The association is confirmed by the detection of allelic imbalance (AI) in at least one of the following chromosomal regions of lung cancer cells: 19p13.3-p13.1; 9q32-34.3; 2p21-p16.3; 16p13.3; 22q12.3-q13.1; and 5q35.3.

2010-11-04

20100279282

METHODS FOR GENOTYPING MATURE COTTON FIBERS AND TEXTILES - Methods for distinguishing between cotton cultivars of a specific species by analyzing a sample of mature cotton fibers from raw cotton materials or from textile goods are disclosed. DNA is extracted from the mature cotton fiber sample and subjected to PCR techniques which enable the identification of the cultivar of a particular cotton species utilized in the textile or cotton material of interest.

2010-11-04

20100279283

METHOD FOR MOLECULAR BIOLOGY APPLICATIONS - The invention provides a method of nucleic acid synthesis and/or amplification, and/or of improving the efficiency, activity and/or stability of at least one nucleic acid-modifying enzyme, comprising carrying out the method in the presence of (a) at least one organic-based macromolecule having a molecular weight of 50 kDa to 500 kDa and neutral surface charge; or (b) at least one organic-based macromolecule of radius 2 to 50 nm and neutral surface charge. There is also provided a method of determining the optimum crowding conditions of macromolecule(s) in solution.

2010-11-04

20100279284

METHOD FOR SELECTING HOP LINE AND BREEDING MARKER AND PRIMER SET USED FOR SELECTING HOP LINE - It is an object of the invention to screen for hop varieties with low cohumulone ratio and low colupulone ratio, as well as hop varieties with high contents of farnesene and/or linalool within a short time period utilizing a molecular screening method that employs a breeding marker. The invention provides a breeding marker using a polymorphism at the position of the 623rd nucleotide or a polymorphism at the position of the 1820th nucleotide of a polynucleotide consisting of the nucleotide sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 5.

COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS USEFUL FOR SITE-DIRECTED RECOMBINATION IN PLANTS - This invention relates generally to useful compositions and methods related to plant site-directed recombination. In particular, the invention relates to novel nucleic acid sequences unique to a portion of the sorghum NBS-LRR region, as well as vectors, seeds, plant parts and plants comprising these sequences. Methods to investigate recombination co-factors, and methods to investigate potential herbicides are within the scope. This invention also relates to fungal pathogens of sorghum, particularly

2010-11-04

20100279288

Method for Sequencing Nucleic Acid Molecules - The sequence of a target polynucleotide can be determined by: (i) contacting the target polynucleotide with a polymerase enzyme and one of the nucleotides A, T(U), G and C under conditions suitable for the polymerase reaction to proceed; (ii) measuring the time taken for the polymerase to bind to and subsequently dissociate from the target polynucleotide, to thereby determine whether the polymerase has incorporated the nucleotide onto the target polynucleotide; (iii) optionally repeating steps (i) and (ii) with additional nucleotides, to thereby identify the sequence of the target polynucleotide.

2010-11-04

20100279289

SIZE-DEPENDENT BIOLOGICAL EFFECT OF NANOPARTICLES - Nanoparticles are used increasingly in consumer products and biomedical applications. Yet the cellular interaction mechanism at the molecular level is not well understood for nanomaterials of different size, shape and surface chemistry. Gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs), which have been explored extensively for various applications in recent years, are used as the model system to help understand the size-dependent biological effects of nanoparticles. Jurkat cells treated with Au-NPs ranging from 2 nm to 200 nm were studied. Whole genome expression measurements indicate size-dependent effects, including linear scaling and threshold effects. In addition, a non-linear pattern of gene responses that persisted over time were observed in 20-40 nm Au-NP treated cells. Gene function, promoter, and pathway analyses reveal differential signaling processes that are correlated with nanoparticle sizes. The size may play a role in cellular sorting of naturally occurring particulates, particle interaction with the receptors, intracellular transportation, signaling and stress responses.

GENE SILENCING OF THE BROTHER OF THE REGULATOR OF IMPRINTED SITES (BORIS) - The present invention provides methods and compositions useful for inhibiting expression of the gene encoding the transcription factor, Brother of the Regulatory of Imprinted Sites (BORIS) by RNA interference. Methods of the present invention can be used to silence BORIS in cancer cells, which results in apoptosis and may be useful as for treating cancer in mammals. The methods of the invention directed to cancer therapy can be used alone or in combination with standard cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

Method for Identifying an Increased Susceptibility to Ulcerative Colitis - A method is provided for detecting an increased susceptibility to ulcerative colitis by determining the presence of a polymorphism at position 256 of the nucleotide sequence of rs3024505 in which C is substituted by T or the presence of a polymorphism at position 501 of the nucleotide sequence of rs12612347 in which G is substituted by A.

Devices and Methods for Heating Biological Samples - This invention provides a systems and methods for regulating temperature and heat transfer in applications in which it is desirable to maintain temperature uniformity such as thermal cycling applications. A heat block is used to rapidly transfer heat to or from a set of one or more reaction vessels.

2010-11-04

20100279300

METHODS FOR DETERMINING THE PROGNOSIS FOR PATIENTS WITH A PROSTATE NEOPLASTIC CONDITION - The invention provide a method of identifying a biomarker that is diagnostic for survival of a patient with a prostate neoplastic condition. The method consists of (a) measuring the level of IAPs in a neoplastic prostate cell-containing sample from patients with a prostate neoplastic condition, and (b) identifying a correlation between the level of IAPs in a sample from a patient with the survival of that patient, where the correlation of an IAP with survival in patients indicates the IAP is a biomarker diagnostic of survival of a patient with a prostate neoplastic condition. Also provided is a method of determining a prognosis for survival for a patient with a prostate neoplastic condition. The method consists of (a) measuring the level of XIAP in a neoplastic prostate cell-containing sample from the patient, and (b) comparing the level of XIAP in the sample to a reference level of XIAP, where an increased level of XIAP in the sample correlates with increased survival of the patient. The invention further provides a method of determining a prognosis for survival for a patient with a prostate neoplastic condition. The method consists of (a) measuring the level of two or more IAPs selected from the group consisting of XIAP, cIAP1, and cIAP2 in a neoplastic prostate cell-containing sample from a patient, and (b)comparing the level of the two or more IAPs in the sample to a reference level of the IAPs, where an increased level of XIAP and decreased level of cIAP1 or cIAP2 in the sample correlates with increased survival of the patient.

2010-11-04

20100279301

METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR DIAGNOSING BLADDER CANCER - The present invention relates to compositions and methods for cancer diagnosis, research and therapy, including but not limited to, cancer markers. In particular, the present invention relates to genes and gene panels as diagnostic markers and clinical targets for bladder cancer. Methods, compositions, and kits for diagnosing, determining, and determining risk of tumor aggressiveness are disclosed.

2010-11-04

20100279302

METHODS OF PREDICTING PAIRABILITY AND SECONDARY STRUCTURES OF RNA MOLECULES - Provided are methods of predicting a pairability of nucleotides of a plurality of RNA polynucleotides by (a) simultaneously determining a paired state or an unpaired state of nucleotides of the plurality of RNA polynucleotides; and (b) corresponding the paired state or the unpaired state of the nucleotides to a database of nucleic acid sequences, the database comprises nucleic acid sequences representing the plurality of RNA polynucleotides, thereby determining the pairability of nucleotides of the plurality of RNA polynucleotides. Also provided are methods of determining a secondary structure of a plurality of RNA molecules; methods of determining if a molecule is capable of modulating a secondary structure of at least one RNA polynucleotide of a plurality of RNA polynucleotides; and methods of screening for a marker associated with a pathology.

2010-11-04

20100279303

REACTION VESSEL, REACTION VESSEL LIQUID INTRODUCING DEVICE, LIQUID INTRODUCING AND REACTION MEASURING DEVICE, AND LIQUID INTRODUCING DEVICE - The invention relates to a reaction vessel, a reaction vessel liquid introducing device, a liquid introducing and reaction measuring device, and a liquid introducing device, and is directed to being able to perform temperature control of a liquid stored within the reaction vessel with a high accuracy and faithful responsiveness. The reaction vessel comprises: a storage chamber in which a liquid is storable, that has an opening part; a reaction chamber that is formed thinner or narrower than the storage chamber; and at least one flow passage that communicates between the storage chamber or the exterior and the reaction chamber. The reaction vessel is formed such that it is connectable to a liquid introducing section provided externally, and the liquid can be introduced into the reaction chamber by connecting to the liquid introducing section.

2010-11-04

20100279304

METHODS FOR PRODUCING NUCLEIC ACID HYBRIDIZATION PROBES THAT AMPLIFY HYBRIDIZATION SIGNAL BY PROMOTING NETWORK FORMATION - This invention describes methods for the generation of nucleic acid probes that improve the sensitivity of hybridization assays. The sensitivity increase results from structural modifications of nucleic acids that promote network formation during hybridization with the result that a single target molecule becomes attached to a complex of many probe molecules. The structural modification involves fragmentation of the probe nucleic acid followed by joining the fragments together such that their order and orientation and number is altered from the original probe molecule. The result is the generation of permuted probe libraries. Various fragmentation and joining methods are described. Labeling can be done by standard methods before during or after formation of permuted probe libraries. Individual members of permuted probe libraries can be isolated and amplified and perpetuated. Fixed mixtures of such isolated library members can be used as permuted probe libraries of limited variability to control network complexity. Libraries can be prepared with additional sequences not present in the target and the fraction of the library made up by such sequences can be controlled. Such extra-target additions can be used as targets for detection by secondary probes. Since their number can be far greater than equimolar with the probe sequences represented in the target they can be detected with higher sensitivity in the networks. Probes for different targets can incorporate different non-target sequences in hyper-molar quantities permitting sensitive detection of multiple hybridization targets in the same sample. Probes made according to this invention can be used in many kinds of hybridization assay including Southern. blots, Northern blots, Dot blots, Nucleic acid Array hybridization, ‘in situ’ hybridization with fluorescent or other labels (FISH) and various kinds of sandwich hybridization assays.

2010-11-04

20100279305

COMPOSITIONS, METHODS, AND KITS FOR DETECTING RIBONUCLEIC ACID - Compositions, methods, and kits for detecting one or more species of RNA molecules are disclosed. In one embodiment, a first adaptor and a second adaptor are ligated to the RNA molecule using a polypeptide comprising double-strand specific RNA ligase activity, without an intervening purification step. The ligated product is reverse transcribed, then at least some of the ribonucleosides in the reverse transcription product are removed. Primers are added and amplified products are generated. In certain embodiments, the sequence of at least part of at least one species of amplified product is determined and at least part of the corresponding RNA molecule is determined. In some embodiments, at least some of the amplified product species are detected, directly or indirectly, allowing the presence and/or quantity of the RNA molecule of interest to be determined.

Angiogenesis Inhibiting Molecules, Their Selection, Production and Their Use in the Treatment of Cancer - The present invention relates to a method for providing molecules that are capable of inhibiting angiogenesis, comprising the steps of providing a range of molecules; testing whether these molecules can prevent interaction between JAM-B and JAM-C; testing the positive molecules for their ability to block angiogenesis in vivo; and selecting molecules that are positive in the angiogenesis test as angiogenesis inhibiting molecules. The method may further comprise the step of isolating or producing the angiogenesis inhibiting molecules. The invention further relates to the angiogenesis inhibiting molecules thus provided and produced, to their use in the treatment of cancer, to therapeutical compositions comprising them. In a particular embodiment the invention relates to monoclonal antibodies, in particular Mab H33, to soluble JAM-C and JAM-B and to small molecules.

2010-11-04

20100279308

RAPID LATERAL FLOW GLYCAN-DETECTING DEVICE - A glycan-detecting device containing a sample pad, a membrane in communication with the sample pad, a labeled lectin, an immobilized lectin of the same type, and an immobilized antibody specific to the lectin.

2010-11-04

20100279309

MICROFLUIDIC CHIPS AND SYSTEMS FOR ANALYZING PROTEIN EXPRESSION, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Microfluidic chips, systems including at least one integrated microfluidic chip operably connected to hardware (e.g., docking device, high voltage electrodes, portable fluorescence microscope, computer, etc.), and methods for analyzing peptides (e.g., toxins), proteins (e.g., cancer biomarkers, recombinant human growth hormone, recombinant human erythropoietin), and protein expression in biological samples (e.g., human serum, urine, or tissue, marine organism, seafood, etc.) have been developed. On a single microfluidic chip as described herein, several sequential processes for analyzing a protein (e.g., cell culturing, cell lysis, protein enrichment, protein labeling, and protein detection) can be performed in an automated fashion. The microfluidic chips, systems, and methods described herein provide real-time, high-throughput, highly-specific detection of proteins such as recombinant erythropoietin, recombinant human growth hormone and marine biotoxins, as well as important biomarkers in the cancer signaling pathway network for early and precise cancer diagnosis.

2010-11-04

20100279310

ASSAY DEVICE AND METHOD - An assay method is described, which comprises the steps of immobilizing a binding partner (e.g., an antigen or antibody) for an analyte to be detected (e.g., an antibody or antigen) on a portion of a surface of a microfluidic chamber; passing a fluid sample over the surface and allowing the analyte to bind to the binding partner; allowing a metal colloid, e.g., a gold-conjugated antibody, to associate with the bound analyte; flowing a metal solution, e.g., a silver solution, over the surface such as to form an opaque metallic layer; and detecting the presence of said metallic layer, e.g., by visual inspection or by measuring light transmission through the layer, conductivity or resistance of the layer, or metal concentration in the metal solution after flowing the metal solution over the surface.

2010-11-04

20100279311

METHOD FOR SCREENING OF CELL-PROTECTING AGENT - The invention provides a screening method and screening kit for a cell protecting agent. Specifically, the invention provides a method for screening a cell protecting agent showing an Hsp90-binding activity and a heat shock protein expression-inducing activity but having no Hsp90 client protein degradation-promoting activity. The method comprises the following steps (1) to (3): (1) measuring the binding property of a test compound to Hsp90; (2) measuring the activity of a test compound to induce the expression of a heat shock protein, or measuring the activity of a test compound to disrupt an Hsp90/HSF-1 complex, by using a cell capable of expressing the heat shock protein; and (3) measuring the activity of a test compound to induce the degradation of an Hsp90 client protein by using a cell capable of expressing the Hsp90 client protein. The invention further provides specifically a kit for screening a cell protecting agent, comprising (1) Hsp90; (2) a reagent for measuring the heat shock protein expression-inducing activity; (3) an imidazothiazine derivative; and (4) a reagent for quantifying an Hsp90 client protein.

COMPOSITION AND METHOD FOR MEASURING THALLIUM INFLUX AND EFFLUX - The present invention relates to methods for detecting the activity of an ion channel in a cell. The methods comprise providing a loading buffer solution to a cell that has an ion channel. The loading buffer comprises at least one thallium indicator (e.g., an environmentally sensitive, luminescent dye) and a physiological concentration of chloride ions. The methods further comprise providing a stimulus buffer to the cell, wherein the stimulus buffer comprises thallium (e.g., thallium ions). Providing the stimulus buffer causes thallium influx into the cell through the ion channel. After providing the stimulus buffer, the luminescence (e.g., fluorescence) of the dye in the cell is detected. The luminescence of the dye can change in the presence or absence of thallium. The methods may be used to measure influx or efflux of thallium through an ion channel.

2010-11-04

20100279315

IMPROVED METHOD FOR PRENATAL DIAGNOSIS - The invention discloses a method of prenatal diagnosis comprising the step of isolating exosomes from an isolated fluid, wherein the exosomes are identified by biomarker detection. Furthermore, the invention discloses the isolation of exosomes from an isolated fluid and the use of a biomarker, particularly CD24 to isolate exosomes from an isolated fluid.

2010-11-04

20100279316

Antibodies to Phosphorylated IRAK4 - The present invention relates to antibodies that bind phosphorylated forms of IRAK4, methods of using such antibodies to detect IRAK4 biological activity, and methods for the detection, diagnosis, and prognostication of pathological conditions related to IRAK4 biological activity. ERAK4 is one member of a small family of highly conserved cytoplasmic signal transduction proteins characterized by the presence of an N-terminal “death domain” and a C-terminal serine-threonine kinase domain. IRAK4 functions in cytoplasmic signal transduction pathways by interacting with membrane spanning proteins which play, inter alia, critical roles in vertebrate immune system function.

2010-11-04

20100279317

Method - The present invention provides a method for identifying a single or group of T cell receptors (TCR) protective and/or effective against a disease, having the following steps: i) obtaining T cells from a donor non-human animal; ii) adoptive transfer of the T cells into a plurality of T cell-deficient recipient non-human animals in a number such that at least one recipient animal is protected against the disease but at least one animal remains unprotected; and iii) determination of the TCR(s) present only in the protected animals. These TCR can be used to identify the determinants or antigens for inclusion in a vaccine or other treatment.

2010-11-04

20100279318

METHOD OF IDENTIFYING TRANSMEMBRANE PROTEIN-INTERACTING COMPOUNDS - A method for screening compounds for their ability to interact with transmembrane proteins is provided. Also provided is a method for determining whether proteins such as transmembrane proteins are able to oligomerise. The method uses a transmembrane protein that comprises a nuclear localization sequence (NLS)

2010-11-04

20100279319

Detection of plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein II in saliva malaria patients - The detection of PfHRP II in saliva offers a practical, cost-effective alternative to PfHRP II detection in blood as a means for diagnosis of malaria. Collection of saliva is non-invasive, simple, safe, stress free, painless and can be accomplished in primitive settings. The use of Malaria Antigen ELISA kits (CELISA, Cellabs, Australia) used in accord with known procedures for testing blood samples.

2010-11-04

20100279320

High-throughput cell transfection device and methods of using thereof - Transfecting biology cells with nucleic acid molecules (DNA, siRNA) is an essential prerequisite in elucidating how genes function in complex cellular context and how their activities could be modulated for therapeutic intervention. Traditionally studies are carried out on a low throughput gene-by-gene scale, which has created a huge bottleneck in functional genomic study and drug discovery. Development of high-throughput cell transfection technology will permit functional analysis of massive number of genes and how their activities could be modulated by chemical or biological entities inside cells. This invention describes design, construction of device and apparatus for high throughput effective cell transfection. Procedures and protocols for using the device and apparatus are also described in the application. Novel methods of using the device in cell-based assays are also disclosed.

2010-11-04

20100279321

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR THE ISOLATION AND ENRICHMENT OF CIRCULATING TUMOR CELLS - Embodiments in accordance with the present invention relate to methods and apparatuses for concentrating and isolating Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) from body fluids. One embodiment of the present invention includes a micro-fabricated or nano-fabricated device having channels configured for separating and excluding. Embodiments in accordance with the present invention utilize features that reduce the hydrodynamic pressure experienced by the cells during the separation, isolation and concentration processes, and therefore reduce the likelihood of cell lysis or other damage to the cells.

2010-11-04

20100279322

Direct detection of intracellular fluorescently tagged cells in solution - A method of detecting target cells and pathogens in a test sample concentrates to target cells in solution by filtering or capturing the target cells on a solid support. The target cells are tagged with a fluorescent dye and dispersed in a solution or suspension. The resulting solution or suspension are introduced to a fluorometer to specifically identify and quantitate the target cells. The target cells can be lysed or whole when introduced to the fluorometer.

Assay For Detecting Mycobacterial Infection - Methods for assessing a mycobacterial infection in a subject comprise exposing at least one CD1 molecule or analogue to mycolic acid or a mycolic acid analogue, subsequently incubating the at least one CD1 molecule or analogue with a sample comprising at least one T cell isolated from the subject, and measuring the T cell response and/or the number of mycolic acid specific T cells present in the T cell sample.

2010-11-04

20100279325

USE OF MODIFIED EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX PROTEINS IN DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS - The present invention relates to the use of fibronectin, tenascin, collagens type I, III, VI and/or VIII modified by aldehyde or by glycosylation in ELISA for detection of antibodies in plasma and serum to diagnose atherosclerosis as well as the use of induction of tolerance and active as well as passive immunization against glycosylated or aldehydemodified fibronectin, tenascin, collagen type I, III, VI and/or VIII for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.

2010-11-04

20100279326

METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE CONCENTRATION OF AN ANALYTE IN A FLUID - A total transmission spectroscopy system for use in determining the analyte concentration in a fluid sample comprises a sample cell receiving area, a light source, a collimating lens, a first lens, a second lens, and a detector. The sample cell receiving area is adapted to receive a sample to be analyzed. The sample cell receiving area is constructed of a substantially optically clear material. The collimating lens is adapted to receive light from the light source and adapted to illuminate the sample cell receiving area with a substantially collimated beam of light. The first lens is adapted to receive regular and scattered light transmitted through the sample at a first angle of divergence. The first lens receives light having a first angle of acceptance. The first lens outputs light having a second angle of divergence. The second angle of divergence is less than the first angle of divergence. The second lens is adapted to receive light from the first lens and adapted to output a substantially collimated beam of light. The detector is adapted to measure the light output by the second lens.

2010-11-04

20100279327

METHOD OF TREATING DISEASES WITH PARP INHIBITORS - The present invention relates to methods of identifying a disease treatable with PARP modulators by identifying a level of PARP in a sample of a subject, making a decision regarding identifying the disease treatable by the PARP modulators wherein the decision is made based on the level of PARP. The method further comprises of treating the disease in the subject with the PARP modulators. The methods relate to identifying up-regulated PARP in a disease and making a decision regarding the treatment of the disease with PARP inhibitors. The extent of PARP up-regulation in a disease can also help in determining the efficacy of the treatment with PARP inhibitors. The present invention also relates to methods of identifying a disease treatable with PARP modulators by identifying a level of PARP in a plurality of samples from a population, making a decision regarding identifying the disease treatable by the PARP modulators wherein the decision is made based on the level of PARP. The method further comprises of treating the disease in a subject population with the PARP modulators. The methods relate to identifying up-regulated PARP in a disease and making a decision regarding the treatment of the disease with PARP inhibitors. The extent of PARP up-regulation in a disease can also help in determining the efficacy of the treatment with PARP inhibitors.

2010-11-04

20100279328

Fret assays, methods for performing the assays and compounds relevant to the assays - The present invention is generally directed to biological assays. More specifically it is directed to FRET-based assays using particularly effecting FRET pairs, methods for performing such assays and the molecules utilized in the assays. In a composition aspect, the present invention is directed to a FRET-based protease substrate selected from the list of substrates shown in the Detailed Description section above. In a method aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of performing a FRET-based assay, where the assay includes the following steps: adding a solution or suspension containing one or more different proteins to a reaction vessel; adding a liquid comprising a FRET-substrate to the reaction vessel, wherein the FRET-substrate is selected from the list of substrates shown in the Detailed Description section above. In a kit aspect, the present invention is directed to a kit for performing a FRET-based assay, wherein the kit comprises a protease substrate. The protease substrate is selected from the list of substrates shown in the Detailed Description section above.

2010-11-04

20100279329

METHOD FOR THE STABILISATION OF PURIFIED P-GLYCOPROTEIN - There is provided a method for producing purified P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in a stabilised form such that, after being reconstituted into proteoliposomes, it can be freeze dried and stored for prolonged periods of time without loss of biological activity The method comprises the steps of: i) solubilising a mixture of P-gp and other proteins obtained from cell membranes; ii) removing insoluble material by centrifugation; iii) placing the mixture of P-gp and other proteins in a purification column; and iv) running through the purification column at least one wash buffer so as to remove unwanted proteins, and then at least one elution buffer so as to recover the P-gp; wherein one or more of the buffers contains a disaccharide. Trehalose is a particularly preferred disaccharide.

Novel Transporter Protein in Mammal and Utilization of the Same - The present invention provides a lipid membrane that contains a polypeptide consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, 4, 6, 8, or 22. Use of the present invention enables screening for a chemical which regulates excretion of a chemical and/or a waste. Furthermore, use of the present invention enables an arbitrary chemical to be tested for nephrotoxicity and/or hepatotoxicity.

METHODS OF TREATMENT WITH ANTIBODIES TO A CHEMOKINE EXPRESSED IN INFLAMED ADENOID - The present invention provides nucleotide and amino acid sequences that identify and encode a novel expressed chemokine (ADEC) from inflamed adenoid tissue. The present invention also provides for antisense molecules to the nucleotide sequences which encode ADEC, expression vectors for the production of purified ADEC, antibodies capable of binding specifically to ADEC, hybridization probes or oligonucleotides for the detection of ADEC-encoding nucleotide sequences, genetically engineered host cells for the expression of ADEC, diagnostic tests for inflammation or disease based on ADEC-encoding nucleic acid molecules or antibodies capable of binding specifically to ADEC.

2010-11-04

20100279334

CYCLODIPEPTIDE SYNTHASES (CDSS) AND THEIR USE IN THE SYNTHESIS OF LINEAR DIPEPTIDES - Use of CDSs in the synthesis of linear dipeptides, and applications thereof for the in vivo and in vitro synthesis of linear dipeptides, in particular Phe-Leu, Leu-Phe, Phe-Phe, Phe-Tyr, Tyr-Phe, Leu-Leu, Leu-Tyr, Tyr-Leu, Phe-Met, Met-Phe, Leu-Met, Met-Leu, Tyr-Met, Met-Tyr, Met-Met, Tyr-Tyr, Ile-Met, Met-Ile, Leu-Ile, Ile-Leu using the corresponding polynucleotides.

METHOD FOR RAPIDLY MEASURING PREMATURE YEAST FLOCCULATING FACTOR OF MALT AND MEASURING APPARATUS THEREFOR - This invention provides a method for rapidly measuring an premature yeast flocculating factor of malt contained in a brewing material, comprising the following steps of: (1) mixing yeast in the late logarithmic growth phase or thereafter with a water-extracted high molecular fraction prepared from a test material sample in a buffer solution and suspending the mixture in the buffer solution; and (2) irradiating the suspension obtained in the step (1) with visible light, photographing the scattered light with a camera device, image-analyzing the image data thus obtained and determining the degree of whiteness of the suspension to measure the degree of sedimentation of the yeast in the suspension. According to the present invention, the premature yeast flocculating factor of malt contained in the brewing material can be measured in a highly accurate, rapid and simple manner, and, further, even a plurality of analytes can be rapidly measured.

2010-11-04

20100279337

Biomarkers Related To Metabolic Age and Methods Using The Same - Biomarkers relating to metabolic age are provided, as well as methods for using such biomarkers as biomarkers for determining metabolic age. In addition, methods for modulating the metabolic age of a subject are also provided. Also provided are suites of small molecule entities as biomarkers for metabolic age.

2010-11-04

20100279338

CELL CARRIER CODING - There are provided cell carrier devices for use in cell observation systems, enabling determination of the location of the region under observation by virtue of coding information present in the field of view of the viewing device, even at high magnification. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

2010-11-04

20100279339

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING BACTERIAL GROWTH BENEATH A WOUND DRESSING - An apparatus and method are provided for visually monitoring, detecting, and/or determining the presence, absence, and/or growth of harmful or potentially harmful bacterial microorganisms beneath a wound dressing, in one example used to cover an indwelling central venous catheter or other catheter. A bacteria detection apparatus includes a barrier membrane, a permeable membrane for placement proximate a wound or a catheter insertion site, and an indicator between the barrier membrane and the permeable membrane for indicating the presence of bacteria proximate the permeable membrane. A method of using a bacterial growth detection apparatus is also provided.

2010-11-04

20100279340

Imaging agents for protein misfolding - Charged and neutral small fluorescent molecules based upon the styryl scaffold are useful as imaging agents for misfolded proteins such as amyloid plaque. Charged molecules are prepared using pyrrolidine catalyzed reactions by solution-phase synthesis. Neutral styryl molecules are prepared using acetic anhydride catalyzed reactions, Horner-Emmons reactions or Wittig reactions.

2010-11-04

20100279341

METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR ANALYZING CELLS - The invention relates to a method for analyzing cells that are present as closed clusters. According to said method, a planar tissue preparation is subjected to an identification staining of the cell nuclei and a target structure staining of cell objects that is different from the identification staining. Digital images are recorded of the stained tissue preparation by means of an electronic image recording device and at least one image of a subsection of the tissue cut is displayed in at least one coloration. According to the inventive method, at least one parameter of the cell nuclei and at least one parameter of the cell objects labeled by target structure staining is restricted to a predetermined range of values. Cell nuclei and cell objects whose parameters correspond to the respective parameter range(s) are detected and optionally displayed using image processing algorithms in the image of said subsection. The image content of at least one image detected for the cell nuclei is correlated with the image content of at least one image detected for the target-structure stained cell objects to detect the individual cells. On the basis of the cell nuclei identified a cell growth or a cell enlargement is induced using a predetermined arithmetic algorithm to reconstruct the individual cells. In doing so it is made sure that neighboring cells do not fuse. The number of reconstructed individual cells is determined and/or the individual cells are divided into populations according to certain parameters.

2010-11-04

20100279342

THIN-SECTION SLIDES MANUFACTURING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTRING THIN-SECTION SLIDES - A thin-section slide-sample manufacturing apparatus and a method for manufacturing a thin-section slide sample by cutting out a thin section from an embedded block, transporting the thin section on a conveyor unit, transferring and mounting the thin section on a substrate, the thin-section slide-sample manufacturing apparatus including: a relay having a fixing plane onto which the thin section is fixed detachable; a rotating transportation unit which moves the relay between the conveyor unit and the substrate; and a control unit which moves the relay to the conveyor unit by using the rotating transportation unit, which moves the relay to the substrate where the thin section is detached and transferred to the substrate; wherein, the control unit rotates the relay according to the preliminarily set fixing plane and the relative position of the thin section around a rotation axis provided orthogonal to the fixing plane by using the rotating transportation unit.